Week 18 Game Preview: Arizona Rattlers vs. Los Angeles KISS

Phoenix. Ariz – The World Champion Arizona Rattlers (12-3) had their eight game winning streak snapped this past Friday night against the Spokane Shock (5-10), in a 52-45 loss on the road. The loss breaks a winning streak, but the Rattlers still remain atop the West Division in the National Conference. Arizona will host the Los Angeles KISS (4-11) this Sunday, July 26th after an extended eight day week.
The Arizona Rattlers had a hot offensive start to the game with quarterback Nick Davila throwing three touchdowns scores in each of the first three possessions. The Rattlers lead 20-6 midway through the second quarter before things took a change of course.
Davila was sacked four times and threw two interceptions in Friday’s game. On the defensive side of the ball, Rattler defensive back Markus Smith led the way with eight tackles. Despite the loss, the Rattlers still remain 4th in the AFL in scoring offense and 2nd in the AFL in scoring defense. The disappointing finish is in the rearview mirror for the Rattlers now, as they focus on Los Angeles and finishing the regular season strong.
The Rattlers have been very successful in each of their meetings with the Los Angeles KISS. Arizona is 4-0 all-time against the KISS and will be playing just their second home game against them in this new division rivalry.
The KISS is coming off of a low scoring 37-27 victory over their fellow division rivals, Las Vegas Outlaws. Los Angeles has won four of their last six games, after beginning the season 0-9. KISS quarterback Danny Southwick threw three touchdowns to three separate receivers. On the defensive side of the ball, KISS defensive back Rayshaun Kizer recorded seven tackles and an interception.
The Rattlers and KISS will meet for the third time this season, this time at the US Airways Center this Sunday, July 26th at 3 PM. The Rattlers have already clinched a playoff spot, while the KISS remain in the hunt. The matchup in the Snake Pit will be the final game of the AFL’s week 18 slate of games. Sunday’s game will be nationally televised on ESPNEWS and streamed online at ESPN3.com or the WatchESPN app on a tablet or smartphone.